ABSTRACT
Since there is no end in sight for changes that impact our organizations, our capacity for handling it, both at personal and organizational levels, is critical. Sustainable companies address change better than others most likely due to mindsets, capabilities, and practices that have made them change-adept. This chapter explores what makes sustainable companies more change-adept than others, and examines the personal capabilities needed to lead change. The chapter explores the fundamentals of change, dimensions and types of change, and includes some tips for how leaders can prepare to lead change.
The chapter discusses organizational resilience and how sustainable companies use unexpected disruptions to transform. These resilient and change-adept organizations are comfortable with uncertainty and continuously challenge the status quo. By focusing on innovation, they are in an advantageous position to achieve breakthroughs and significant improvements in products or services.
The chapter examines how leaders can reframe some common myths about change. It includes some tips for how leaders can cope with ambiguity and uncertainty better as they embrace fresh approaches to leading change. The chapter includes a self-assessment for leaders to reflect on their own personal capabilities for dealing with change and an assessment of their organizations’ readiness for change.
